Dallas ISD, Fort Worth ISD Among Districts Graded in New TEA School Ratings

Following almost two years of legal battles and postponements, the Texas Education Agency has unveiled the anticipated A–F accountability ratings for the 2022–23 school year. As a result, school districts in the Dallas area are now under increased scrutiny and may face new repercussions due to the revised grading system.

Out of approximately 1,200 school districts across the state, 10.4% achieved an A, 73% obtained a B or C, while 16.6% were assigned a D or F. In North Texas, Dallas ISD achieved an overall passing grade; however, several campuses scored lower under the new metrics. Fort Worth ISD has encountered significant challenges — it now faces the possibility of losing control of a struggling campus or experiencing state intervention due to inadequate performance.

The state's system evaluates each school and district according to three main criteria: student achievement (including STAAR scores and readiness for college and careers), school progress (measuring student growth in comparison to peer campuses), and closing the gaps (assessing performance among various student groups, such as English learners and economically disadvantaged students). Student achievement and progress account for 70% of a school's overall grade while closing the gaps accounts for the remaining 30%.

These ratings represent the initial thorough assessment before the pandemic. During the 2019–20 and 2020–21 academic years, TEA did not provide full scores, and only partial data was available in 2021–22. The release for 2022–23 faced delays due to a lawsuit from several districts contesting TEA Commissioner Mike Morath’s authority to elevate standards; however, a recent appellate court ruling has paved the way forward.

Although certain North Texas schools celebrated their impressive ratings, education advocates continue to express concerns that the system disadvantages districts with a significant population of low-income students. However, the TEA and confident lawmakers contend that the revised ratings enhance transparency and help families make informed choices.

Ratings for the ongoing 2023–24 school year are still subject to a court hold.

Check the TEA website to find your school’s rating.